The Man, The Legend, The Monster

Rocco Mediate said that he was "playing a Monster today". He was right!

Let's give Rocco serious credit for actually having a chance to beat Woods. We all knew that he wouldn't make that put on the 18th for victory. Having never been in that position before and playing the world's best, his nerves got the best of him. He was man enough to admit it afterwards.

By all accounts, Rocco is a great guy and popular with his peers. Being loose on the course and having fun is his tradmark. Most importantly, he has never been intimidated by the Tiger mystique or been afraid to talk about TW's, greatness. The other tour professionals could learn a thing or two from Rocco on how to deal with the Monster.

Tiger Woods roared loudly and showed the world once again how mentally and physically tough he is.

14 for 14 when leading or sharing the lead in Major Championships.

"He has won four Masters titles, the first one by 12 strokes. He has won three United States Opens, the first by 15 strokes. He has won three British Opens, the first by eight strokes. He has won four P.G.A. Championships, one of them by five strokes."
(http://www.nytimes.com/2008/06/17/sports/golf/17golf.html?_r=1&ref=sports&oref=slogin#)

It is near miraculous what he did today and all weekend with a knee that was obviously hurting. Broadcaster Johnny Miller indicated that Tiger looked like he was close to packing it in yesterday during the 4th round of golf's US Open.

I don't think people realize what a dominant force he is. There is no other athlete in their sport even close to doing what he has done. After this win, one could make a case for calling him the BEST EVER regardless of sport.

If you haven't read my article from last year, take a moment to do so. You can click on the Blog Archive (August 13, 2007) on the bottom right. It will tell you all you need to know about why "No Athlete can Compare".

Even though I don't like the US Open 18 hole playoff format, this Tiger moment was an absolute thrill to watch.

Will we see similar drama at the next Major, the 2008 British Open?

I hope so.

Gswede